Sonesta Essential Des Moines

2.0 star property
Hotel in Des Moines with free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Suite, Multiple Beds | Desk, iron/ironing board, rollaway beds, free WiFi
Property amenity
Restaurant
Exterior
Restaurant

Reviews

7.4 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Laundry
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included

Explore the area

View in a map
4755 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, IA, 50322
  • Place, Merle Hay Mall
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Drake University
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Casey's Center
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Airport, Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Room options

Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 1 Queen Bed

7.6 out of 10
Good
(18 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Room, 1 Queen Bed

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(7 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Room, 2 Queen Beds

7.0 out of 10
Good
(16 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Suite, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, Multiple Beds

  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Queen Beds

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About the neighborhood

Des Moines

Located in Merle Hay within a mile (2 km) of Merle Hay Mall, Sonesta Essential Des Moines is within a few miles (5 km) of Pioneer Hi-Bred Headquarters. This 150-room hotel has conveniences like free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Merle Hay Mall - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Drake University - 8 min drive - 4.2 miles
  • Living History Farms - 10 min drive - 7.5 miles
  • Iowa Events Center - 12 min drive - 7.6 miles
  • Casey's Center - 13 min drive - 7.8 miles

Getting around

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪7 Brew Coffee - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬17 min walk

About this property

Sonesta Essential Des Moines

Hotel in Des Moines with free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk
Guests of Sonesta Essential Des Moines enjoy access to free WiFi in public areas, coffee in a common area, and a meeting room. Free parking is available if you drive. The 24-hour front desk has staff always at the ready. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls and litter boxes. Additional amenities include laundry facilities, a banquet hall, and an ATM.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and 43-inch TVs with satellite channels and Netflix. Other amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and free local calls. Housekeeping is available on request.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Free RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM on weekdays and 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM on weekends
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Business services

  • Meeting room

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel

More

  • 3 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch TV with premium satellite channels
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Free bottled water
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 50 per pet, per night
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 2 total pets
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Food and water bowls and litter boxes are available
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 50 per accommodation, per stay
  • Administrative fee: USD 3.00 per accommodation, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: USD 50 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Choice)
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with free RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.
  • This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Choice).

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Econo Lodge Inn Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Moines/Merle Hays Road
Hotel Econo Lodge Inn & Suites - Des Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites - Des Moines/Merle Hays Road Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Suites Des Moines/Merle Hays Road
Econo Moines Merle Hays Road
Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel
Sonesta Essential Des Moines Des Moines
Sonesta Essential Des Moines Hotel Des Moines
Econo Lodge Inn Suites Des Moines/Merle Hays Road

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

Sonesta Essential Des Moines provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

As of Oct 5, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Des Moines on Oct 14, 2025 start from $60.43, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What can I see within easy reach of Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

This hotel is situated in Merle Hay, close to Casey's Center, Merle Hay Mall, and Living History Farms. You'll also find Val Air Ballroom and Buccaneer Arena within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Accessible parking and free RV/bus/truck parking are also available for guests.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines include a casino at the property?

No, Sonesta Essential Des Moines doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like Netflix as well as free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Sonesta Essential Des Moines offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Will Sonesta Essential Des Moines allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, cats and dogs are welcome at Sonesta Essential Des Moines for a fee of USD 50 per pet, per night. The property also provides food and water bowls and litter boxes.

Does Sonesta Essential Des Moines have connecting rooms?

Yes, this hotel has connecting guestrooms you can book for your group event or vacation.

How far is the airport from Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

The closest major airport to Sonesta Essential Des Moines is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), which is 22.4 mi away (29 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Sonesta Essential Des Moines?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Sonesta Essential Des Moines.

Reviews

Sonesta Essential Des Moines Reviews

7.4

Good

7.4/10

Cleanliness

7.6/10

Staff & service

6.8/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.2/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 351 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 259 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 176 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 97 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 119 out of 1002 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kristin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

angela

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities

our Des Moines expewrience

we were in room 303 in des moines. We had NO hand soap.We had no ice bucket . There was pubic hair on the toilet seat . I suspect whoever cleaned the toilet used the bowl brush to clean the seat area. So we asked the front desk girl (who was wonderful but I suspect she was new) she tracked them down by the time we were back from dinner she only found a ice bucket and could'nt find any soap for us to wash our hands with. She found a small tube of shampoo which we used. They are using thoase large refillable bottles attached to the wall. the was on in the shower but not at sink. they did have a door seperating them. At the sink was a bottle of LOTION not soap! could not remove it. What hotel doesn't have bars of soap or liquid soaps at the front desk in case you need them? Also there was NO hand towel hanger by sink for hand washi ng??????who does that? And the whipped cream and the cherry was at 3:00 am we had NOOOOOO toilet paper AND NO ONE ANSWERED THE FRONT DESK PHONE. We had to use paper towels till thenext morning when my Husband coincidently ran into a cleaner. Now I don't know about you BUT have you EVER been to a hotel that didn't have 2 spare rolls in your room?????
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Daneth

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
There was no exhaust fan in the bathroom and there was mold forming on the ceiling
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Maureen

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Fine. Maybe better if not on first floor.

Discrepancy at check in about number of beds booked was handled friendly and efficiently. Accepted first floor room for our convenience, turned out to be a little high traffic in the hall. Also the entire first floor smelled of something like cigarettes.Could use larger softer pillows and hand soap at the sink- we were too tired to bother anyone about issues. We decided never to travel on July 4th again-fireworks all around past midnight. Morning coffee was pretty good.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Louie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

WhatsAMattaU

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service

Smelly hotel

Hallways have overpowering smell of curry which is quite unpleasant.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristine

Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was just a nice place to stay. The room was nice.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Matthew

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Tasha

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Satisfaction

Nice staff. Clean room. Very small bathroom. Breakfast was ok. Waffle maker, sausage, eggs, breads, coffee, juice. Eggs were not great, coffee was good. Area was not concerning - location was easy off the highway.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Wayne

Traveled with family
Disliked: Amenities
poor breakfast
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Mlumbulwa

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alejandra

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Frank

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

Katie

Business traveler
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities

Not at all clean

We checked into a room and when arrived at the room the door was open. We I approached the front desk about it, he said “what’s the problem it’s clean isn’t it” he reluctantly gave us a new room as we felt uncomfortable with it just being open. When arriving to the new room the hallway was filled with the fragrance “pot”. When entered room it smelled of food not cleanliness. Also we had to kill three crawling bugs. There was hair on the fave towel and the faucet to our tub broke and the water could not be adjusted or turned off. We were offered no apologize or anything. We left and didn’t turn back. The idea of sleeping in the bed was not appealing it felt gross
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Rachel

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

Mark

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Lame breakfast. Dirty property. Sticky floor in room. Even stickier floor at breakfast with syrup all over floor and a table
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

Sue

Business traveler
I booked this room specifically for the jacuzzi tub, shown in the king bed room pictured on hotels.com. Feels like a real bait n switch that I was just provided a king bed only. After 10 hours driving an no one answering the front desk phone to discuss, I needed to just take the disappointing lump and get some sleep.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mona

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karl

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Nic

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aisha

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good customer service
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

Alex

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Alex

Room smelled very bad. Could not sleep. Did not find free breakfast. Would not recommend this hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

DOYLE

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

Terry

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
DO NOT STAY HERE! I booked this hotel, because we were exhausted from driving all day and the pictures and price looked good. Boy, we were in for a let down. The elevator was terrifying, made a loud boom and creaking sound when it reached the 2nd floor. The floors in our room looked as if it hadn't been swept or mopped in weeks. The hallway smelled musty. There was a thickness in the air that was nearly suffocating. Breakfast was awful. No coffee, no juice. Syrup spilled all over the floor that workers were clearly ignoring. We were surprised with an extra $50 deposit upon arrival that my husband has yet to receive back. Save your time and money and avoid this hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

Rachel

Disliked: Cleanliness
The floors and sheets had crusty stains on them. The remote was sticky and the batteries were held in with electrical tape. Cheap renovations for a cheap place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025